Keraia
Romans 4

Romans 4:5

Abraham Justified by Faith · Romans 4:1–12
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Translations

Modern
However, to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness.
Traditional
But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
Literal
But to the one not working but believing on the One justifying the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness,
Latin
Ei vero qui non operatur, credenti autem in eum, qui justificat impium, reputatur fides ejus ad justitiam secundum propositum gratiæ Dei.

Original

Greek
English
However, to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness.

Notes

Romans 4:4–5

The logic of these verses is as follows:

  1. When people work, their pay is what they earn, not a gift.

  2. The idea not stated is that God never owes his creatures anything. They owe him everything. So, anything he gives is a gift (see also 9:14–16).

  3. The conclusion is that God does not place people in a right relationship with him because of their works.

Parallels

Genesis 15:1–7 Psalm 32:1–11 Hebrews 11:8–19

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Bible, Quotations of the Old Testament in the New Testament Faith Freedom, Liberty Gospel Imputation Isaac Letter to the Romans Reward Righteousness

Topics

Abraham: Faith of Bigotry: Paul's Argument Against Catholicity: Inculcated Faith: General Scriptures Concerning Grace of God: General Scriptures Concerning Grace: Justification By, Opposed to That by Works Imputed Righteousness Justification by Faith Justification: General Scriptures Concerning Righteousness by Faith Righteousness Imputed: Saints: Have, on Believing Salvation: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To The Reward of Saints is of Grace, Through Faith Alone The Reward of Saints: Not on Account of Their Merits Works: Insufficiency of, for Salvation